Teething
Babies can get their first tooth anywhere between three to fifteen months, but commonly between four to nine months – although discomfort may start earlier. (Dribbling at three months is usually a result of your baby learning to put things in their mouth, which is part of normal development).
- Rub baby’s sore gums gently with your finger.
- Give baby a teething ring - either a soft rubber one, or the plastic type that are kept in the refrigerator.
- Offer a rusk, or cold piece of fruit or vegetable if baby is on solids.
- If baby is distressed or irritable, or needs help to settle at night, give paracetamol as directed for this age.
- Avoid hard sharp-edged toys that could damage teeth and gums.
- Don’t dip dummies or teething rings in honey or sweet foods, as it may lead to dental decay (and honey shouldn’t be given to babies under 12 months).
- Don’t suck baby’s dummy and give it back to them, as you will transfer bacteria from your mouth to theirs.
- Don’t use teething gels that contain aspirin - consider using ice made with boiled water.
- Rosy, flushed cheeks
- Increased dribbling
- Tugging at ears
- Chewing on everything
- Tender swollen gums
- Irritability
- Disturbed sleep
- Poor appetite
- Loose, frequent stools
- Sore red bottom or rash
Generally, teething does not cause a fever. If baby has a high temperature, see your doctor.